Thank you, Mr. Jones. I think what you said was similar to what Mr. Woodford said earlier, namely that there have been enough studies and research over the years. You yourself are on the ground, or on the water, rather. You're witnessing what's going on, and you'd like the government to take action.
The Bloc Québécois held a fisheries round table on the right whale in December. Fish harvesters from various regions came to talk to us. It was very enlightening. That's where I found out that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans doesn't always consult fish harvesters, for fear of a conflict of interest. But the problem isn't a conflict of interest, it's more that fish harvesters and hunters are familiar with the reality on the ground and could help departmental officials understand what's happening and respond accordingly.
Do you think that's what's happening right now with pinnipeds? Do you think that not enough consultations are being done with the people on the ground, like you, the hunters, the fish harvesters and the associations?
My question is for all three witnesses. They can answer one by one.